families of the sick people may panic and use violence

In something reminiscent of a science fiction movie the British government has ordered a ’Ring of Steel’ to be put into place around the national stocks of the influenza drug Tamiflu. Highly trained teams of security guards working in conjunction with the police and other security services will be situated to make sure that the Tamiflu and Relenza distribution centres are safe from outside interference.

Not only will the influenza drugs be guarded but strict procedures for the transportation of the medication to hospitals have also been drafted. Richard Hampton, the boss of the NHS Security Management Service explained that in a pandemic situation people could panic trying to get hold of Tamiflu or Relenza and this could pose a danger to National Health Service staff. He also explained that the people distributing the influenza medications will be trained in conflict resolution to minimise the chances of potentially dangerous situations. The British government has also refused to divulge the location of the influenza medication stores in order to add an extra layer of security.

In a pandemic situation where thousands of people need quick access to Tamiflu and Relenza it is important that the authorities are well prepared and move quickly to allay people’s fears. If there is a big delay in getting access to what many people perceive to be lifesaving medication, families of the sick people may panic and use violence in a desperate bid to save their loved ones.

Experts on contagious disease outbreaks have warned that when many people get sick panicking can start extremely fast and when that happens all normal systems for the provision of medical care break down. Even with the recent swine influenza pandemic hospital staff around the world have had to deal with terrified family members and panic demands for influenza medication.

As with any pandemic situation, being prepared is the most important thing.